Volvo readies Allroad rival

Forget the twin kidney grille - this isn't a BMW, it's the next Volvo XC70.

Even with its disguise, the basic shape of the new four-wheel-drive estate is easily visible. It features styling cues from the S80, albeit with a more chunky profile.

Expect the new V70 estate to have similar looks and proportions, though obviously with a lower ride height and no off-road styling. Engines will include the five-cylinder D5 diesel and six-cylinder 3.2 petrol. The new 4.4-litre V8 may also be used to create a high-performance model, most likely only in the V70.

The XC70 should be in showrooms in late 2007 or early 2008, along with another, smaller crossover model, probably called XC50.